I started a family blog a year and a half ago to keep family up to date on our day-to-day lives. As an Air Force family, we move often and don’t live close to extended family so the blog is a great way for everyone to watch the kids grow and see what we’re up to.

As a “mom blogger” what challenges do you face balancing both, and how do you handle them?

Obviously the key is setting limits. I do the majority of my writing, networking and emailing when my kids nap and after they go to bed (which often means late nights for me). There are times when the kids are playing and I think, “Just one more email,” but I have to take a step back and remind myself that my kids are my priority. Email can wait, it’ll be there when the kids go to bed, you know?

What tips do you have for new bloggers?

It’s so cliché, but be yourself. In a sea of mom blogs, the only thing that truly sets you apart is YOU. Don’t lose your voice and have fun!

And what about blogging vets? Any tips or techniques to share that makes The Shopping Mama successful?

Network, network, network. Between forums, Twitter and reading other blogs there are so many ways to meet and connect with other bloggers. Not only is it a great way to build traffic to your blog, but it’s also really fun! I love meeting new friends and I learn something every day from my blogging friends.